OT, but Because of the framing, the photo perfectly illustrates a point I've long noticed: in public, the First Lady is adamant in projecting herself of equal stature as her husband. I mean in physical height.

She is a tall woman, but without fail, in public at least, she chooses footwear to bring herself exactly even with her husband's height (though you can't see what she's wearing in this photo).

Has anyone else noticed this? Is there any reason or justification for this other than pride and insecurity?

I love that look on Obama's face: More exasperation, maybe a little amusement, with the old pervert. It would appear as though he was debriefed and prepared for DSK's lechery, which must not have ever been much of a secret.

...she chooses footwear to bring herself exactly even with her husband's height...Has anyone else noticed this? Is there any reason or justification for this other than pride and insecurity?

Yes. Women in formal dress are expected to wear heels; flats are never formal. Michelle is already almost as tall as her husband, so if she is dressed for a formal occasion, she's going to be quite tall. It can't really be avoided, unless she takes to wearing ballet flats or loafers with evening gowns.

(I suppose Obama could start wearing lifts in order to reassure people who think he should always look taller, but that seems like gilding the lily.)

There are a number of things to criticize about Michelle's dress sense. This isn't one of them.